At almost every stage in life we can benefit from a mentor, a special friend who has walked the road ahead of us and is willing to help us along by suggesting strategies for creating a successful journey, choosing an alternate path, or overcoming roadblocks. Mentors encourage us, challenge us, guide and advise us. They help us to recognize and evaluate career opportunities and consider the likely outcomes and consequences of our choices.

But when it’s time to move forward on identified goals, one needs a different kind of relationship. To shift into execution mode, one needs a super-mentor, a sponsor, a well-connected advocate who believes in you and your potential. Sponsors are influential and powerful people who have the clout to open doors, make connections and recommend you for plum assignments and promotions. They take an interest in you and your career, but their chief role is to develop you as a leader, a leader who will become an ally. A sponsor sees furthering your professional success as a way to further their own and to give themselves bragging rights when you succeed. Mentors prepare you to make a move; sponsors make it possible for you to realize your goals.

When considering who might make a good sponsor for you, do not look for a role model to admire and emulate. Look instead for a powerfully positioned rainmaker. You seek not so much a friend, as an ally. Next, make a brutally honest calculation of the value-added you can offer to your prospective sponsor. Very rarely will a sponsor go out on a limb and call in favors to advance the cause of another without a powerful incentive, which can be acting as the backer of someone who shows the ability to climb to the top. This is a quid pro quo strategic alliance. To attract a sponsor to open doors for you, make that individual proud to be affiliated with you. Exceed expectations, meet deadlines, hit a home run every time. Furthermore, you must be unfailingly loyal to your sponsor. When s/he needs backup, you are the first to stand up and deliver the ROI.

Where might a Solopreneur consultant find a sponsor? Network in places where powerful people congregate. Get involved with activities and work yourself up to earning a leadership role, where your prospective sponsor can witness your enterprising ways, ability to motivate and work with a team and ability to get things done. A not-for-profit organization board, fitness center or yoga studio, or place of worship are all good networking venues.

Separate yourself from the pack by learning to excel in verbal communications, interpersonal relationships and rapport building; give excellent presentations; sharpen your writing skills; show empathy, good humor and a willingness to collaborate. People think that those who communicate exceptionally well are good leaders and smart (whether or not that is the case). When you’ve identified prospective sponsors (there can be more than one), work on developing a relationship and allow it to grow organically.

Time will be involved and much will depend upon mutual trust that develops and the boundaries of your prospect. The clock may be ticking on your plans, but if you are perceived as pushy, the relationship will be lost forever. What you want are opportunities to talk, so you can let this individual know what you’d like to do. You can even state that you’re looking for help. The prospect will either offer the help, or not. If that person does not come through, either he/she has no influence in that realm, or would rather not risk extending it to you. Your prospective sponsor either values you, or does not.

Tribalism matters. Mentors and sponsors tend to bond with those who remind them of themselves and relationships often form within gender, racial, ethnic or religious categories. Your communication skills, when honed as advised above, may help you to transcend boundaries. Also, in our increasingly global society, your sponsor may decide that diversity will be advantageous when cultivating allies.

Thanks for reading,

It should be an agency that fits your style and works out for your modeling interests. With that in mind, we list some key indicators of a top modeling agency.

1. It’s a legit agency (not a scam)

This is the first and foremost important thing to determine, even if not for your career, for your safety. Many models get scammed by fake agencies involving money laundering, nude photograph, and rape and drug abuse etcetera. This is definitely something to avoid. Some key ways to identify scammer is:

– They offer free test shoots.

– Guaranteed jobs on the first days.

– Coerce you to wear over revealing clothes.

– Normalize activities such as sex and drugs and ask you to partake in them.

– Located in suspicious area such as Dark alleys

– Book an appointment with you on strange timings such as after 10pm.

These are just common traits of scammers or fake agencies, but of course be always aware of such scammers and be vigilant for any signs of illegitimacy that they exhibit.

2. Testimonial and reviews

This is one of the best ways to assess the performance of an agency. The testimonials act as an endorsement of the agency and their work. Professional agencies will constantly update their testimonials with their models stating their experiences with the agencies. Not only will it give aspiring models a better understanding of the agency’s work, but it also helps them to foresee the most probable types of modeling jobs that they will be involved in.

Reviews from credible sources, such as Google reviews and ratings are a good way to gauge the agency’s work as well.

3. Instagram MODEL

Instagram and social media are key platforms to analyze. Any credible and upcoming agency will put in good work in maintaining their online presence and responding to criticisms made against them. Instagram and Social media platforms such as Facebook are platforms for an agency’s to show off their models and the work that they do. The number of likes and shares they receive would give a good idea of the public perception that they do.

4. Interview will not be a walk in the park

In line with difficulty in getting a job, getting accepted will not be a very easy task as well. This is because a countless number of applicants will be trying to be selected by the modeling agency. To even get called to the interview would require you to submit well-taken photographs. But fret not, the rules of the game are simple, wear simple and show off your natural body confidently. Agencies are looking for a blank canvass on which they can fit various styles of modeling. Show off your natural body and skin with minimal makeup and accessories while wearing simple clothes.

There are also possibilities of getting scouted by agencies. Be sure to take a name card and contact information of the agency and not promise anything on the spot. Research on the agency and determine that their work fit your interests

A resume is like a product advertisement; in this case the product is you! It is the first impression you’ll get to make. You want it to be fantastic! Like a product advertisement the goal is to convey to your target audience that you are what they want! They need to go out right now and purchase you before you’re gone. Limited quantity! Act now! If your resume does its job, you’ll earn an entrée to the next step?-?a phone or a face-to-face interview. So, how do you create a resume that works?

Writing has always been a very important skill it creating a resume. Your resume will be judged on many aspects and will be considered the first unofficial round of your interview process. Hiring managers sift through scores of resumes. Yours might only get a few seconds to do its job. Sifting through resumes is often tedious, especially when they’re complicated or even flawed. So, keep it short, simple, and error free.

A Human Resource Manager of a leading advertising agency recounts memorable resume faux pas. “There were resumes that included strange and unnecessary personal details such as weight, hair color, and allergies, without including necessary details like skills and achievements.” Sally also remembers a resume that arrived with a cover letter. “The cover letter was not extraordinary, but the personal recommendation from the applicant’s mother was. Needless to say, this applicant wasn’t considered for an interview.”

Ask any human resource manager and they’ll tell you the best resume portrays the applicant as a problem solver. Ensure that your resume is not rejected by avoiding these common pitfalls.

1. Typos and Grammatical Errors
Your resume has to be impeccable. Make sure you use correct grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Careless mistakes will find your resume in the round file. In a 2013 survey, fifty-eight percent of the employers identified typos as the top reason for discarding a resume. Spell check and proofread multiple times. Read your resume aloud?-?this can sometimes help in finding errors. It’s difficult to spot one’s own mistakes, so ask a friend to help proofread too. No matter how good you are at writing and editing, a fresh pair of eyes definitely helps

2. Fibbing About Previous Work Experience
Yes, we know that a resume is an advertisement, but don’t oversell yourself. Lying or exaggerating about your work experience may help you land an interview, but can backfire after that. Remember that some companies will make calls to confirm previous employment or check references. In the event you’re hired, fibs have a way of unraveling as on the job skills are tested. Avoid an embarrassing situation by following the straight and narrow. Distinguish between emphasis and exaggeration when it comes to selling your skills, work history, and achievements on your resume.

3. Not Customizing Your Resume to a Specific Position
One size doesn’t fit all when it comes to resumes. Use your cover letter to articulate what value you offer the company and customize your resume for the position to which you are applying. A tailor-made resume conveys that you are focused and have taken the time and effort to learn about the company and position to which you are applying.

“When it comes to getting a job or client, congruent value is aligning the employer’s need with your value add.”

Try to include keywords from the job listing. Most fortune 1000 companies and other companies rely on digital scanners to filter resumes. If your resume is posted online, scanners can also find it using relevant keyword searches. Use a keyword strategy to improve your chance of being chosen for an interview. Also remember to tailor your objective statement with keywords that underscore what the company is seeking.

4. Focusing on Duties versus Achievement
A resume is not only a list of your duties and responsibilities. It can be a vehicle to tell of your skills, achievements, and accomplishments. Use active statements to show the value you’ve added to previous and current positions on your timeline. Avoid being vague by writing, “Responsible for raising funds.” Instead, write specifically what your role was in “raising funds.” Try, “Organized a marathon and helped raise $50,000 for victims of hurricane Sandy.” Specifics and figures better illustrate your value and your achievement.

Your resume doesn’t have to tell your entire life story, but it should highlight what is needed for landing your next position.

You will be able to do justice to your skills, achievements, and accomplishments. You can even customize your profile to retain just the sections you wish to be highlighted and as required by the job you are applying to.

The Graphic design learner has to develop some competencies, attitudes and behavioral traits that would enable him or her to be very proficient in his chosen career or field of study. These attitudes and behavioral patterns do not come by chance. The amateur Graphic artist or learner has to cultivate these traits as he undertakes his projects patiently and with the greatest care. Some of these competencies, attitudes, and behaviors have been discussed below.

1. Ability to observe- The learner has to develop the ability to make critical and serious observation and examination of things in the environment with the view of making an accurate or precise representation of the object or form. It includes the critical observation of linear patterns, variations of shapes, textures, gradation or tones of colours of natural and manmade objects found in the environment.

2. Ability to use memory and imagination to derive and develop ideas- This is the learner’s ability to use his or her own imagination to create things without resorting to copying from already existing items. He should cultivate the attitude of brainstorming new and relevant ideas that can be used in creating useful Graphic products.

3. Ability to pre-image/ visualize and make designs of items- The learner should be able to use his senses especially the sense of sight to foresee or visualize how the idea imagined can be used in creating designs which in turn can be translated into items.

4. Ability to translate ideas and paper designs into three-dimensional items to solve problems or satisfy an identified need using the design and technology process- Designs are two-dimensional in form or flat. These paper designs are often generated into three-dimensional forms. The learner has to be able to meticulously follow the steps in the design and technology process to produce functional items. He should have the mastery to be able to translate designs on paper into free standing items.

5. Dexterity and creative use of tools, equipment and a variety of materials- This refers to the efficient use of the tools and materials. This involves the correct handling of the tools to execute the work. The learner has to understand the nature and feel of the tools and materials so that he can use them appropriately to give the right effect in the artwork.

6. Application of knowledge and understanding to constant practice for proficiency and perfection- The learner should ultimately aim at achieving perfection in the various techniques of artistic production. He should be able to consistently apply the knowledge that he had acquired through constant practice to produce items with great proficiency or skill.

7. Creativity, originality in thinking and end products- The young Graphic artist must make it his or her hallmark to produce items that are original in design, form, colour etc. His ability to create new things should be evident in his thinking as well as in the final products he makes.

8. Ability to respond to an artwork by using knowledge and skills in perception, appreciation, criticism, judgement, evaluation and aesthetics- The learner must have the ability of quickly responding to artworks he comes into contact with. He should be able to apply his senses well in talking intelligently about the aesthetic qualities of the work. He must be able to evaluate, appreciate and criticize an artwork using the knowledge and skills that he has amassed.

9. Critical thinking and problem-solving skills, healthy competition, good human relations, etc. – The learner must also be able to think in concrete terms and always ready to bring out ideas that can solve pertinent problems faced by individuals in the society. He should be able to engage in competitions and exhibitions of Graphic arts held in the school, society or country. He must partake with a clean and clear motives of improving on his skills while learning and taking inspiration from the works of other Graphic artists.

10. Demonstration of human and moral behavior in thinking, feeling and acting e.g. honesty, commitment, self-discipline/respect, diligence, patience, tolerance, teamwork, etc. – There are some moral or behavioral traits that the learner must strive hard to cultivate. These include honesty, respect, diligence, patience, tolerance, and teamwork. People would like to have business transactions with an honest and respectful person. The learner has to be patient and tolerant to be able to absorb the pressures from clients which may sometimes be irritating or annoying. As a learner, he must also be ready to work with other people to achieve the same goal. This quality would enable him to work in a broader working environment such as in an industry or factory. In today’s working environment, teamwork is really essential for the success of any enterprise.

11. Portfolio of works- The learner has to cultivate the attitude of keeping a portfolio of his creative works either in hard or soft copies. This would enable him to enhance and improve upon his creative works every time.

12. Ability to perform tasks with little or no supervision- The learner should be able to perform his assigned work with little or no supervision. He must strive very hard to work independently with or without a tutor around. This would assist him to develop his skills at a relatively faster rate.

13. Self-learning/evaluation for improvement- The learner must be experimental, trying to learn new things on his own without being instructed to do so by a teacher or supervisor. He should explore new methods and techniques of achieving already existing production methods and techniques. It should be his or her attitude to try using the tools and materials readily available in the environment to produce meaningful and useful artefacts. Also, he should periodically self-evaluate himself by comparing his previous and current works for the purposes of knowing the mistakes in them and improving upon them.

14. Perseverance – The learner must show fighting spirit in attending to his creative works. He shouldn’t give up in his attempt to produce a difficult product or challenging exercise. He must not shy away from handling difficult artistic Graphic design products.

15. Time-management- The learner must be able to manage his time very efficiently. He should be time bound or time conscious in producing his artefacts. He should be able to meet deadlines set for producing works.

16. Work ethics- This refers to the accepted work behavior and attitudes expected of a Graphic artist. These accepted working behaviors include neatness, cleanliness, accuracy, and precision which are the hallmark of a good Graphic artist. The learner must be determined to display these work ethics in his artistic productions.

17. Self-confidence- The learner must be very confident when attending to his duties. He must not exhibit signs of fear. He should trust in his abilities, qualities or ideas. This would make it easier for him to gain the mastery over his artistic creations.

18. Communication skills- The learner must know how to communicate well with people. Cultivating these communication skills would enable him to communicate effectively with clients. People will certainly like to do business with people who speak politely than those whose manner of communicating pierces as if with a sword.

Did you know that over 85% of resumes received by hiring managers arrive without a cover letter?

While that may not mean much to you, it means a lot to the people reviewing and vetting resumes for the job you are applying for. Resumes that are sent in without someone taking the time to write a cover letter appear to the hiring manager to be submitted almost blindly. It is as if the job applicant has sent their resume in to lots of jobs – shotgun approach – hoping someone might call them back.

This is NOT the kind of first impression you want to give a hiring manager.

On the other hand, those resumes that do arrive with a cover letter get extra attention and are often the first resumes an HR person reviews. A cover letter tells the hiring manager that you care enough about the job you are applying for that it is important for you to stand above the competition. When you take the time to write a cover letter, it also shows initiative and evidences your ability and willingness to go that extra mile. It signals that you are someone who is attentive to detail and that you are willing to do what others applicants (and workers) are not willing to do.

In essence, it shows that you are organized, capable, and professional. A well written cover letter tells the hiring manager that you are serious about getting the job, and it gives you the best chance (along with a relevant resume) of landing an interview and ultimately the job you really want.

While a cover letter is a huge benefit for job applicants, there are both things to avoid and some definite best practices you can use to insure your cover letter is heads and tails above anybody else’s.

How to Address your Cover Letter:

Let’s start first with what to avoid. The most obvious thing you want to avoid is writing a generic cover letter that is unspecific to the job you are applying to. Doing so erases any benefit of putting one together to begin with. The first thing you want to avoid is addressing your letter to the generic: “To Whom it May Concern.” This, once again, just lumps you into the generic cover letter pile, and doesn’t differentiate you from the other applicants.

To avoid this, try to find out the hiring manager’s name or job title, and direct the cover letter to him/her. If this is not possible, then the following addresses are best:

1) Address your cover letter to the department head you are applying to. So if it is sales, use: “Dear Hiring Sales Manager,” or “Dear Hiring Marketing Director,” or “Dear HR Director.”
2) If you don’t know the department, then a good address is: “Dear Hiring Manager,” or “Dear Human Resources Director.”
3) If you do know the name of the hiring manager, then always use their name as such: “Dear Mr. Brooks,” or “Dear Ms. Collins.”

This is the kind of detail that takes just a minute or two to customize, but it makes a huge first impression on the hiring manager. Again, it evidences that you care enough – and are resourceful enough – to take the time to go beyond what the majority of job seekers are not willing to do. The inference is that you will also be more organized and detail oriented on the job as well. And this is the kind of person hiring personnel are looking for.

Next, the content of the cover letter is where you will make or break a good impression. Now, don’t be intimidated here. The hiring manager is not looking for a college essay, nor are they looking for a sample of your writing skills. What they do want, however – and what you want to give them – is why you are uniquely qualified for this particular job. In other words, they are looking for relevant experience that matches up specifically to the position you are applying for.

Let me say that again because this is key: What the hiring manager is looking for is relevant experience of yours that directly relates to the specific job skills and duties they are hiring for.

And the good news is there are some easy, sure fire, best practices you can follow that will immediately give them what they are looking for. Here is how to go about it:

Number One: Carefully review each employer’s ad description and pick out specific words and phrases that describe the skills and day to day activities they are advertising for. An example would be the phrase:

“Relevant experience in prospecting by phone, candidates should be prepared to make between 50 to 75 cold calls per day. In addition, the ideal candidate should also have experience in contacting existing or non-active accounts to expand and grow client base.”

Once you see something like this, it is telling you exactly how to write your cover letter. What you need to do next is match up any (or as many as possible) of your past positions where you performed similar duties. And then include a brief description of that in your cover letter. For example:

“The skills and duties which you are seeking – specifically prospecting by phone and calling into non-active accounts – are exactly the kind of work I did at Sherman Rentals and ABC Financial. I am highly adept at cold calling and regularly average 68 prospecting calls per day.

“In addition, I was also responsible for calling into existing accounts and even won awards for my ability to reactivate and up sell existing customers.”

Now how easy was that? By taking just a few minutes to highlight specific words and phrases and repeat them in your cover letter, you will be doing what 98% of your competition simply won’t take the time to do. Your effort will get noticed and it will move your resume to the top of the stack.

By the way, if you didn’t win any awards, then don’t make it up! Instead, talk about the achievements you did accomplish and the results that you did get. Your goal here, again, is to match up your relevant experience that directly relates to the specific job skills and duties they are advertising for. Remember, the key is to use their exact words and phrases when describing your experience in your cover letter.

Taking this simple step is 75% of writing a powerful cover letter. The other part is to show a sincere interest in their company and job opportunity, and to keep it brief. Here is a complete, best practice cover letter that you can use as a template:

Dear Sales Hiring Manager,

My name is John Brown, and I was very excited to find your job listing on Monster.com. I have always been interested in the online advertising industry (whatever industry their company is in), and feel that I have the relevant experience you are looking for that would enable me to be highly successfully with your company.

The skills and duties which you are seeking – specifically prospecting by phone and calling into non-active accounts – are exactly the kind of work I did at Sherman Rentals and ABC Financial. I am highly adept at cold calling and regularly average 68 prospecting calls per day.

In addition, I was also responsible for calling into existing accounts and even won awards for my ability to reactivate and up sell existing customers.

I would enjoy the opportunity to learn more about the hack clash royale position of account manager you are advertising for, and look forward to exploring how my career experience can be an asset to your company.